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The Department of Correctional Services has confirmed that it has received an application for medical parole for the gunman convicted of killing honeymoon bride Anni Dewani.

Xolile Mngeni, 25, was sentenced to life in prison for the murder.

Mngeni is currently in a critical condition in a Cape Town hospital after being diagnosed with a brain tumour.

Anni's husband, Shrien Dewani, is due to go on trial for her murder in October.

Two other men are serving lengthy prison terms for their part in the murder.

Correctional Services spokesperson Manelisi Wolela says Mngeni's parole application is currently with their National Council on Correctional Services.

“The department can confirm that we have received a medical parole application for offender, Xolile Mngeni. The application is going through the processes and statutory structures of the institution before any recommendation is made to the minister for a decision. Offenders can only be placed on medical parole by the [Justice and Correctional Services Minister, Michael Masutha]," says Wolela.